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Mark Kermode's Christmas Cinema Secrets

Mark Kermode unwraps a glittering selection of Christmas cinematic treats, from much-loved classics to hidden gems, from Hollywood blockbusters to international films.

In a special seasonal edition of his acclaimed series, film critic Mark Kermode celebrates one of the most perennial of all genres: the Christmas movie. Mark unwraps a glittering selection of Christmas cinematic treats, from much-loved classics to hidden gems, Hollywood blockbusters to international films, and reveals the film-making techniques and storytelling secrets that make them so successful.

Mark demonstrates how, as with all great genres, a key to the success of the Christmas movie lies in its adaptability. Christmas cinema embraces a remarkable range of styles and themes, from fairy tale fantasy to high-octane action, family drama to horror. But a great Christmas movie does more than simply set its story in the festive season. It captures something magical – the Christmas spirit – and in this programme, Mark shows you how.

27 days left to watch

59 minutes

Audio described

Music Played

  • Mychael Danna

    In The Season of Hope

  • Alan Silvestri

    Who Was That Lying Dead?

  • Dean Martin

    Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! (Remastered)

  • Dean Martin

    Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

  • The Brain Setzer Orchestr

    Jingle Bells

  • Angelo Badalamenti

    The City of Lost Children

  • Mychael Dann

    A Star Shall Come Forth

  • Monty Python

    The Wise Men at The Manger

  • Frank Sinatra & Bing Crosby

    White Christmas

  • Judy Garland

    Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

  • Bill Nighy

    Love Is All Around

  • Sam the Sham & the Pharaohs

    Wooly Bully

  • John Williams

    Mom Returns and Finale

  • Vaughn Monroe

    Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Mark Kermode
Writer Kim Newman
Writer Mark Kermode
Executive Producer John Das
Producer Nick Freand Jones

Broadcasts

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